AFS Intercultural Programs: Netherlands High School

Location

Netherlands: Amsterdam

Program Summary

The Netherlands is a nation of very independent-minded people who are often characterized by their international outlook, tolerance of others- beliefs, and love of personal freedom. Half of the country lies below sea level on land created by walling off the North Sea with dikes. To keep towns from feeling overcrowded, citizens prefer to ride bicycles everywhere; you'll probably end up doing the same. The Netherlands also has an excellent public transportation system, taking you from from the seaside to tiny villages to the ultra-hip capital of Amsterdam. Locals love water sports (frozen or not), and during the winter, ice skating across frozen canals is popular. The Dutch also have a strong sense of family, and meals are an important time to catch up on each other's lives. The cuisine is simple, and represents a mix of European styles. AFS host family placements are located throughout the Netherlands.

Program Highlights

Year Program:

Dutch culture balances personal freedom with responsibility. You will ...

Program Summary

The Netherlands is a nation of very independent-minded people who are often characterized by their international outlook, tolerance of others- beliefs, and love of personal freedom. Half of the country lies below sea level on land created by walling off the North Sea with dikes. To keep towns from feeling overcrowded, citizens prefer to ride bicycles everywhere; you'll probably end up doing the same. The Netherlands also has an excellent public transportation system, taking you from from the seaside to tiny villages to the ultra-hip capital of Amsterdam. Locals love water sports (frozen or not), and during the winter, ice skating across frozen canals is popular. The Dutch also have a strong sense of family, and meals are an important time to catch up on each other's lives. The cuisine is simple, and represents a mix of European styles. AFS host family placements are located throughout the Netherlands.

Program Highlights

Year Program:

Dutch culture balances personal freedom with responsibility. You will attend either one of the two types of high schools the Netherlands have, HAVO or VWO. HAVO is a liberal arts school which has students who go on to business or technical schools. VWO is a school that has students who go directly into university. No matter what type of school you attend it is most likely that you will be placed in the fourth or fifth year. Just like many students in the Netherlands, you will be getting to school by bicycle. Most schools organize a trip abroad to cities like London, Prague, or Rome at an additional cost. AFS Netherlands also provides activities, such as orientations, regional cultural outings, and an optional short-term exchange in another part of the country called Wisselweek. Each fall and spring, an optional trip abroad is organized. You will also receive a special Nationale Spoorwegen (Dutch Railroads) discount card, which will enable you to travel at special rates. AFS students are placed with volunteer host families located throughout the Netherlands.